Epson previewed its first Ultra Short throw laser home cinema projector, the EH-LS100, at a product preview showcase in London this week, offering the first chance to see the unit in controlled lighting conditions.

The HD projector is being positioned as an alternative to large flastscreen TVs, although it’s a significantly different proposition. For installers looking to place a 100-inch plus image in a limited space media room, the £2,500 model offers a real world alternative to higher end UST 4K units from Sony and Sim2.

The Full HD projector has three HDMI inputs, allowing a number of sources to be connected. Epson demonstrated the projector with Blu-ray and a PS4. The projector can be controlled over a home network using an RJ45 connection, or with Wi-Fi via the optional adapter ELPAP10.

Where the EH-LS100 really impressed was the brightness and contrast. The 3LCD projector has a White and Colour Light Output of 4,000 lumens, with a 2,500,000:1 contrast ratio. These figures confirm Pro AV DNA.

The form factor is something new for the brand, and for this debut model, Epson has shoe-horned the dual laser light source from an Epson commercial pro-AV projector into the chassis. “To be honest, it’s probably over-engineered for a consumer product, “ Epson product manager Paul Wilson told Inside CI. “But this has given us extremely high brightness and product reliability.” Consumers who opt for this model will be able to run it heavily, and not expect to realistically replace the laser light engine, he says. Wilson suggested that running the EH-LS100 on Eco mode will ensure exceptional reliability.

Inside CI thought the projector looked sensational. The vibrancy of Moana (Blu-ray) was undiminished, even in a room with moderate levels of ambient light. Solid blacks enhanced contrast. Gaming was also spectacular. Being UST, players can stand directly in front of the screen for a truly immersive experience, without fear of casting a shadow over the image. The EH-LS100 can be positioned just 6cm away from any display surface.

Epson suggests the laser-light engine will offer 10 years’ worth of entertainment. It comes with a Warranty of five years or 12,000 hours, whichever comes first.